Eagerly anticipated each spring, Darjeeling First Flush is the initial harvest from plants that have lain dormant all winter. The mountainous region, at the foothills of the Himalayans, has long been celebrated for its dramatic landscape and distinctive teas. For this unique style, the buds and tender new growth are carefully hand-picked, and then undergo an unusual hard withering process to rapidly reduce moisture content in the leaves. This produces the tea's characteristic nuanced fragrances and a light, bright taste.

The lightest of our first flushes this season, this lot (EX 22) is from old china variety plants on Singbulli Estate; note how the leaves which have been allowed to maintain much of their greenness. Warm aromas of tropical fruit and hay open to a cup with deep floral flavors—daisy, dandelion—and thirst-quenching melon, akin to a sparkling lemonade.

Country: India
Region: West Bengal
Tasting Notes: guava, dandelion, cucumber
Harvest Season: Spring 2024

2 oz

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   200º F

   3-4 grams, 3 minute steep

   ¼ full, 30 seconds - 1 minute steep